If you are currently an applicant in the workers’ compensation system, you should also consider making a claim for Social Security disability benefits. The Social Security disability program is a federal program, which may provide monetary and medical benefits to recipients.
Social Security benefits are provided through two different programs: Social Security disability insurance (“SSDI”) and Supplemental Security Income (“SSI”). An attorney can help determine which, if either, of these programs you may qualify for. The good news is that the application process for both programs is very similar.
The application process can be long. A large majority of people are denied for their initial application. Many of these same people are denied after their first appeal. It is only after the second appeal, and after a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge, that you have your best chance to be declared disabled. This entire process can take more than two years. However, if you are currently within the workers’ compensation process, or if you have recently completed it, there is minimal additional work involved for you.
There is another benefit to applying for Social Security benefits concurrent with or soon after a workers’ compensation claim: you will already have an extensive and detailed medical record and multiple medical evaluations with which to help prove your disability claim. If an attorney at Mastagni Holstedt, APC is representing you in a workers’ compensation claim, you can speak with them regarding the possibility of filing a Social Security disability claim.
Mastagni Holstedt, APC has extensive experience representing disabled persons in their claim for Social Security benefits. If you are interested in applying, or have applied and been denied, please contact Andrew Doriott at our office at (916) 491-4224.
